Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,550

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Vox AC30 TBX is a celebrated combo guitar amplifier that has carved its niche among guitarists who crave classic British tone. This amplifier is revered for its top boost circuit, which delivers a bright, chiming sound that has defined countless recordings since the 1960s. The AC30 TBX’s all-tube design ensures a warm and dynamic response, making it a staple for professional musicians and hobbyists alike.

Equipped with a pair of 12" Celestion Greenback speakers, the AC30 TBX provides a robust sound that's perfect for both studio sessions and live performances. The amp's versatility shines through its twin-channel design, allowing players to switch seamlessly between the Normal and Top Boost channels to suit their style. The inclusion of a master volume control and treble, bass, and cut controls gives users the flexibility to craft their unique sound.

For those who appreciate aesthetics as much as functionality, the AC30 TBX boasts the classic Vox diamond grille cloth and distinctive vintage styling. It's not just an amplifier; it’s a piece of rock history that continues to inspire musicians across genres with its unmistakable tone.

Key Features:

  • Top Boost Circuit for enhanced high-frequency response
  • All-tube design featuring 3 x 12AX7 preamp tubes and 4 x EL84 power tubes
  • Dual-channel operation: Normal and Top Boost
  • Built-in tremolo and reverb effects
  • Equipped with 2 x 12" Celestion Greenback speakers
  • Classic Vox styling with diamond grille cloth and vintage aesthetics

Product specs

Brand Vox
Model AC30/6 TBX 3-Channel 30-Watt 2x12" Blue Alnico Guitar Combo
Finish Black, Fawn, Purple, Red
Year 1994 - 2004
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Color Family Black
Effects Loop No Effects Loop
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 3 Channels
Number of Inputs 6 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 30
Power Tube Type EL84
Reverb None
Speaker Configuration 2x12"

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Vox AC30 TBX?

The Vox AC30 TBX is known for its bright, chimey tone with a pronounced midrange and sparkling highs, making it ideal for cutting through mixes in both live and studio settings.

Is the Vox AC30 TBX suitable for gigging with a drummer?

Yes, the Vox AC30 TBX's 30-watt output is powerful enough to hold its own in a live band setting, providing ample clean headroom and volume for gigging alongside a drummer.

Does the Vox AC30 TBX work well with effects pedals?

The Vox AC30 TBX is renowned for taking pedals well, particularly overdrives and modulation effects, enhancing its versatility for different musical styles and settings.

What type of speakers does the Vox AC30 TBX feature?

The Vox AC30 TBX is equipped with two 12-inch Blue Alnico speakers, known for their warm, dynamic response and classic British tone.

How many channels does the Vox AC30 TBX have?

The Vox AC30 TBX features three channels, allowing for a range of tonal options and flexibility in shaping your sound.

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Don't Buy a Vintage Vox! Here's Why!

Video thumbnail for Don't Buy a Vintage Vox! Here's Why! by Vertex Effects

Don't Buy a Vintage Vox! Here's Why!

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Video thumbnail for AC30 Comparisons - TB/TBX Pros and Cons by Psionic Audio

AC30 Comparisons - TB/TBX Pros and Cons

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Video thumbnail for Strat + Treble booster + Vox AC30 TBX by Stefán Freyr Baldursson

Strat + Treble booster + Vox AC30 TBX

Stefán Freyr Baldursson

Stefán Freyr Baldursson

Video thumbnail for Vox AC30 CC2X vs TBX by bhm1712

Vox AC30 CC2X vs TBX

bhm1712

bhm1712

Video thumbnail for Vox AC30/6 TBX  Part 4: Final Playing Test by Psionic Audio

Vox AC30/6 TBX Part 4: Final Playing Test

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Video thumbnail for Vox AC30/6 TBX Without the Factory Ground Loops by Psionic Audio

Vox AC30/6 TBX Without the Factory Ground Loops

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Video thumbnail for Vox AC30 TBX Master Volume mod by Stefán Freyr Baldursson

Vox AC30 TBX Master Volume mod

Stefán Freyr Baldursson

Stefán Freyr Baldursson

Video thumbnail for Vox AC30/6 TBX | Playing Test & The Last Remaining Buzz by Psionic Audio

Vox AC30/6 TBX | Playing Test & The Last Remaining Buzz

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vox AC30 TBX.

Features and functionality

  • The '90s/'00s UK-made TBX model lacks reverb and master volume, unlike the newer C2X which includes these features, offering more tonal versatility.

    Source
  • Current models lack a phase-shifting vibrato, which some owners compensate for by using a Boss VB-1W pedal for a similar effect.

    Source
  • The AC30C2 is noted for having a master volume and fully functioning tremolo, offering practical advantages for modern use compared to the AC30/6.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Korg-era AC30 TBX has PCB-mounted tubes which may pose reliability concerns over time compared to chassis-mounted tubes in newer models.

    Source
  • The AC30 is described as heavy, which may be a consideration for those needing portability.

    Source
  • Post-2005, Vox manufacturing moved to China, and some users report a perceived decline in build quality compared to older, Korg-era models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners appreciate the Korg-era TBX for its vintage tone, often comparing its sound closer to '60s models than the newer C2X.

    Source
  • The AC30C2X features Celestion AlNiCo Blue speakers, known for their compression, while some prefer the Greenbacks for a warmer, more dynamic tone.

    Source
  • The AC30/6 Top Boost Reissue, with Celestion G12M Greenbacks, is praised for capturing classic Vox sound and better speaker quality compared to the AC30CC2 with Wharfedale speakers.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used AC30C2X priced at $749 may be considered high by some, suggesting exploring options within the same budget range for potentially better deals.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • AC15 models are recommended as alternatives for those not needing the full power of an AC30, potentially offering better value for smaller gigs.

    Source
  • The AC30 is noted for being extremely loud, making the AC15 a better choice for home use or smaller gigs due to its manageable volume.

    Source
  • The AC30/6 allows three channels to be jumpered together, providing unique preamp gain mixing capabilities, but requires high volume to achieve distortion.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Adding a Mullard ECC83 from the Blackburn works to the V1 position is suggested for enhancing the AC30C2X's tone.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners suggest using boosters, overdrives, or fuzz pedals to compensate for the lack of master volume on the AC30/6, offering different tonal outcomes.

    Source

Critic Reviews

VOX AC30TBX - a review

brianmayworld.com

The Vox AC30 TBX shines with its deep, clean sound and iconic build quality, making it a go-to for fans of rich, creamy distortions reminiscent of classic rock legends. While it excels in delivering a variety of tones with impressive clarity, the lack of an effects loop may limit versatility for some users. The amplifier's simple controls cater to purists, but those seeking complex effects might feel restricted. Ultimately, this amp breathes new life into any setup, especially when paired with a Treble Booster, though it might not suit everyone’s preferences. A solid choice for those chasing that vintage vibe, but be prepared for some limitations.

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